San Martin Has Launched A New Brand! Is It Any Good?

[@rmoffettutube]

I like that they are a Chinese company focusing on Chinese tastes instead of tailoring to more western tastes. Someday, they'll make something extremely interesting that no western designer would have considered.

[@RarivMorben]

The reason I haven't bought a chinese branded watch is that they focus so much on copying famous designs, that they end up not giving them their own identity. Clearly they are capable of making a decent/good watch, so I'm glad they made their own design. It's not quite my taste yet, but at least it got me interested.

[@MarkTaylorrr]

This is pretty much my take too. I don't really want to buy it, but I do want to want to buy it. There's so much going on with this watch that's cool and new. I can't give it my money, but I will give it my respect for new engineering and original designs. Jianghun, stay the course, you're going to make a hit watch.

[@sergiymotorin5769]

@@MarkTaylorrr respect does not keep lights on

[@richardb22]

Someday. But not yet.Not these.

[@juniorjohnson5961]

And they have a much larger audience in China.

[@ChronometerCheck]

Like you mentioned, not to my taste. But I have to applaud any brand that is trying something bold and different, despite how it may be received, rather than a samey clomage or lazy cash-grab. They are going out on a limb with the War Drum and I'm sure those who like it will be satisfied with its uniqueness. As far as the 2nd model, feels a bit of a mishmash of various design elements that results in something of an Invicta sibling, but with San Martin excellent fit and finish. That bracelet is beautiful and if it were available for watches I own, I'd probably pick one up. To each their own, of course. I'm sure there will be someone out there who will be happy with either.

[@sergiymotorin5769]

Applause does not keep the lights on though.

[@ChronometerCheck]

@sergiymotorin5769 Haha, would be nice if it did

[@alfieakaronaldog]

@@ChronometerCheck So you want someone else to fund the diversity you enjoy? These probably have a good market in China, but personally I think any company that’s core aim is to be Bold and Different deserves to go bust.

[@alfieakaronaldog]

@@ChronometerCheck Raygun did something Bold and Different 🦘

[@MrsVanB]

@@sergiymotorin5769 Are you going to say this in every comment?😅

[@weppingtonhardcastle8199]

I’m waiting on San Martin to open a watch mod store, and sell their dials and cases and straps and bracelets to us modders and literally take over the entire watch parts market on AliExpress. If San Martin opened up their parts to modders they would put every other mod store out of business.

[@alfieakaronaldog]

What a kind thought 🤗

[@nicholas34silva]

Say it again!!! I just want access to dials…specifically an enameled dial. Would you ever even consider an AnOrdain if you could mod an NH movement with an enamel dial?

[@TacoMaster3211]

The JH01 looks like an ashtray to me. The tiger caseback is awesome, and I hope they carry that through to other models in the future.

[@JF-lt5zc]

THAT'S IT! Ash tray! Yes on the tiger. That is a really nice brand image.

[@MaclaineS]

San Martin needs to use that bracelet…it’s gorgeous!

[@dunderhay9169]

If the War Drum was smaller and slimmer, I would be very tempted to buy one!

[@Bluepeter62]

Not really my taste as well but the longer I look at those watches they're growing on me. Kudos for trying something different. I guess it will resonate well on the Chinese home market.

[@trulsdirio]

I absolutely love the design and implementation of the theme on the war drum model! Super unique, but not completely over the top and still wearable. I don't quite understand why you are lowkey making fun of the names, when you always complain about not having names with other watches. Pick a side, would you?

[@brianlam9429]

Scots just like to roast

[@daleyfamily2179]

"Ah, the classic 'I love it, but also let me lecture you about your opinions' comment. The theme on the war drum model may be subtle and wearable, but your ability to process lighthearted commentary apparently isn't. If appreciating good design while poking fun at over-the-top names is confusing for you, I’d recommend taking a breather-maybe consult the instruction manual for having a nuanced opinion?"

[@rag_man673]

I like the tiger on the "war drum" but might I suggest a koi fish for the diver, and should they create a pilot style watch, maybe a crane. 🤷‍♂

[@xPhilz0r]

I liked the deep challenger so much I bought it the second I saw it. I'm certainly not disappointed. Its chunky but with dimensions similar to my Helm Vanuatu I find it very wearable.

[@catherinebrennan3342]

That Wardrum is one of the most interesting watches I've seen in a while. And the logo is great. I don't love the lugs; I wish they'd worked to make them more wrist friendly. The deep challenger is interesting too: chunky, idiosyncratic and nicely made. Bravo.

[@Dan-G-CLE]

Everybody Jianghun tonight!

[@veloway]

gives your age away, but true gold

[@watchcollector1968]

Lol! I'm still stuck in the 80s.

[@spicyyeetloaf]

Love this!! I hope they keep making new original designs

[@artphotodude]

I could wear that brown one for sure. It's is agreat to see some new blood (and design language) in the market.

[@robedmunds7163]

Much prefer the authentic branding, it is one thing that puts me of San Martin.

[@ifnyou]

I think if they made a smaller and subtler version of that war drum, it might be a winner. In its current form it's a very bold watch that wants a very bold wearer, and I don't think that's me. But I do enjoy the originality and "voice" that it expresses.

[@mikedandurand3548]

Well they certainly have designed a watch with some unique features. That strap is a beauty. I would love to be able to find something similar out there.

[@donnyboon2896]

Yes. I like the dive watch. The date frame does not bother me at all. 👍🏻

[@altal2993]

Not quite my cup of tea, however there are elements of these watches I really like. The onion crown, the single piece case of the first is really interesting. I like it. I rarely see something new and different these day.. I think its brilliant...... well done these guys..... Tell them to please continue 🙏

[@JF-lt5zc]

The single piece case with the non-rotating fake dive bezel is really off putting for me. It's like a cheap wal-mart watch or something.

[@kesfitzgerald1084]

It has an integrated bezel 😊 This is an actually interesting watch. Cheers.

[@tomasarfert]

Strange. I hated the fist one when I first saw it, but it has grown on me. I kind of like it now!

[@andrewhannam.]

The watches are an interesting taste but the bracelet and clasp are fantastic!!!!

[@vaclav_fejt]

I'm not a buyer, but I've loved the look of the War Drum ever since it was released. It's so fresh. Jianghun have shown a strong design language here, I bet they can do more than "just" that rather conventional diver. If they can be the Panerai of the Yellow sea, that would be something.

[@quixomega]

I think they're more aimed at Seiko. With watches that undercut them on price and have better finishing.

[@vaclav_fejt]

@ I meant design-wise. Big and bold. Seiko aren't big and bold.

[@MrGeod]

I like both. The war drum was not instantly appealing but it grows the more I see it. The deep diver I liked immediately. I do have nearly 8" wrists so I'm always attracted to the bigger chunkier watch. This downsizing trend is depressing for me as I'm sure it is for a lot of us bog wristers.

[@23727bgk]

Definitely different, original and high quality...

[@tuxedomanor]

Definitely out of the box design .. kudos to them taking a chance!

[@stuartthornton3027]

Both mostly looked finished to the expected San Martin level, although it looked as if the lume was very uneven on the second watch. There was a considerable difference in the fade of the indicies. The first is one of the most original watches I've seen come out of China. This is where people kindly name all the watches it is a homage too.

[@mk84142]

They have some really nice individual design elements. As a whole not a fan of design but lots of interesting and nice bits! Lookin forward to future releases!

[@robertcox2857]

I like the case back on the War Drum and the bracelet on the diver. But at $300 per, I'm out. You can buy several Paganis, Steeldives, Addiesdives, etc., with NH35s and sapphire crystals, for the price of one of these. Still, interesting to learn about the new brand. Thank you Jody!

[@adk7962]

They are definitely not for me, but I’m glad they are doing this. Hopefully they are able to continue to exercise their creativity and keep putting out excellent San Martin watches. And I wholeheartedly agree. The tiger goes on every case back!🐯

[@captbumbler5356]

Hi Jody, these are nice looking watches but only if the were smaller and thinner. not bad for a first couple of tries. Agree about that silly submarine

[@scottfraser1758]

The war drum wears really well, and I find I t to be one of those designs that makes me want know wat time it is. It's a very distinctive style and I like it a lot.

[@yoginasser305]

" determined to plow its own Patty field" excellent selling point right there !

[@HonestWatchReviewsHWR]

I might not have the first comment... But I have already checked that first watch out a while back though. I think its great to see a Chinese brand embracing it's roots. They definitely went bold in the design for the first watch... Which makes sense to make sure it differentiates itself from any homage accusations. I thought that they would go a bit more conservative with the follow up.

[@AnyoxB.D.]

Yes, it’s great for a Chinese brand to be embracing their roots, but does any of that matter if the designs are terrible? The second watch does not even seem particularity Chinese, more so a bizzaro Seiko. According to the comments here and on Reddit, there is basically nobody who likes this so I don’t know what will become of the brand.

[@HonestWatchReviewsHWR]

@AnyoxB.D. I think they just need a bit of time to sort out the design direction they want to take it.

[@thesolver1970]

yeah I have this watch, I like it, gets a lot of attention

[@HonestWatchReviewsHWR]

@@thesolver1970 It's one that grows on you the more you wear it, isn't it?

[@Cloxxki]

I just ordered 3 Paganis to add to the 3 I already have. The 11.11 sale was mighty good to me. My second Daytona is somehow cheaper in Euros than my first, 5+ years later. €50 or so. It's my daily, hope the new one wears the same and the black dial will be more legible. Also the Pepsi GMT and the new chronograph with the design I don't even know what it references but waffle dial and integrated bracelet. What a steal with Seiko quartz. That's the way.

[@JustOneMoreWatch]

No sign of my three watches yet maybe next week?

[@Cloxxki]

@@JustOneMoreWatch Hi Jody! I'm working up courage for yours, to be honest. Feel I have more refinement of my taste (maybe even personality) to unlock before going "legit". That €91 GMT will be my crown jewel after years of subscribing to you. Also, I'm still getting learning to grant myself really nice things, had gotten used to living on a shoestring budget even when I really didn't need to anymore. I thought my Pagani Daytona would hook me on getting a real one, but even though it's my daily and I'm in the blessed position to just get (a used) one...I've not even gotten that itch for some reason. This may change when I get my first watch winder in, also over the coming weeks. Surely love your designs and trust your manufacturing choices. If anyone were foolish enough to ask me what watch to buy anywhere near your price range, I'd probably go on a bit of a positive rant 😀

[@ExposedRoot]

I have a 6" wrist. I have a San Martin 62 mas. My first watch as i start a collection. The drum style is different and my need to grow on you but i like what they did. Embracing their heritage. I think its too big for my wrist and since i could not try it on it may never come to be. Im a woman and don't fear large watches but those lugs!! At least they are trying. I wish them luck.

[@stevenshaw6766]

It will probably go down well on the Asian market. They do love big chunky blingy watches that stand out. Maybe not a western style or taste but, each to their own.

[@k.iskandar]

The war drum reminds me of the JLC Snowdrop. And I love the fact that the brand is brave enough to go bold with their designs. Its not my usual type of watch that I'd go for, but thats the main point here. Its unique. And at this price point, its refreshing to see something this bold and unique. I may consider getting that war drum in black. If they have it in green or red, I'd definitely get one now.

[@nicomal]

I really like the first one. I love that it's a chunky boy. But not in that color. I see there are green, purple and black. The black is the best. I would love to see a grey one. The second watch is very cool too. I love the big numbers.

[@fmroig]

Dang! I must admit the Wat Drum is my next watch!!! I promised not to buy more watches this year, but that looks deserve it. Main reason! I'm tired of the watchworld... I see the same watch everywhere, just a little change here or there, but the same, even from the micro world... this is really an original and nice looking watch. Thanks Jody!

[@j.a.h.vandelaak3477]

❤

[@BrianHartman]

Great review as always, Jody! :) I kind of like the orangey-brown one. That looks really nice. I don't know what they were thinking with a "bezel that's not a bezel", though. That was a weird choice. At least the bezel moves on the Deep Challenger, but I'm not vibing with that watch as much.

[@JohnBuckmaster-sw3wm]

I kind of like the shape of the case… And I’ve had this exact same strap purchased from AliExpress and wore it on several watches and it’s great… And that’s the two things I like about the watch… Thanks Jody!

[@K.J.H_]

They have to sort out that hour hand, but the idea is cool

[@tuberaider]

It's good to see they are branching out. Although I like the war drum dial, the hour hand could have been done differently.

[@acftmxman]

I believe since the Deep Challenger is supposed to be a diver, the extra lume at the three makes it more compliant with ISO standards. In my humble opinion, if they would just turn the shape 180 degrees then it would more match what they did at the 9. A good review Jody.

[@speedracer2please]

I love seeing something this unique! I could see getting one if I had a big wrist and a Chinese wife. Maybe someone will come out with a small, traditional Korean design like this!

[@lgroves336]

Forget the watches, where is the link to the shirt? lmao love it

[@alastairheptonstall7982]

I also appreciate this brand standing as a Chinese company and making original designs. I’ve bought several homage watches from Ali Express and while they have been okay, I just never wear them. I guess I’m too vain to risk someone thinking I’m wearing a Daytona when it’s a $50 Ali special. There’s no reason why these companies can’t compete head to head with the Swiss with their own designs.

[@TFPMadcow]

The caseback is cool. Mount the strap backwards and wear it dial down.

[@tobiasschenkel5760]

The Wardrum Model looks a little bit like those Camel Trophy Watches from the 90s, especially with this kind of strap. Really like that unconventional design though! 👌

[@wngimageanddesign9546]

Upon seeing their first offering the War Drum, I bought it immediately even though I've never owned a San Martin. I knew about their reputation and build quality. I have no doubt Chinese manufacturers can build high quality watches. The original and unique design and style queues of the JH01 was unlike most conventional watches in the casual/lifestyle luxury market. The War Drum quality and execution is superb, a level above their San Martin homages and GADA style offerings. Most impressive watch I've bought in a long time. Ideal for a first edition for a genuine Chinese brand. Their JH02 GMT was my 2nd purchase. The GMT Diver's 300m tool watch is original and fit and finish are brilliant. The design and style choices are bang on. The bracelet design is extraordinary. I paid for both with my own money. They are some of the finest made and finished watches in my collection of 100 watches.

[@thesolver1970]

I snapped up the burgundy one while it was discounted on pre-order and got a further reduction in price by signing up their email (of which I have only received two). the style is polarizing, but I like it because it is different and the quality of it is superb.

[@mercster]

Who else's money would you have used?

[@armydave1687]

Shill comment. You say youve never had a San Martin but then say the quality is above san Martin. Fake

[@JianghunWatch]

@@armydave1687 I don't know if this gentleman owns San Martin Watch, but he actually bought both series launched by JIANGHUN Watch and was one of the first to buy them. He also often shared his joy with us. If these are all fake user reviews, then I can't imagine what the real reviews are like.

[@BlueLightning1988]

@@armydave1687 undercover rep？

[@andrea81]

I think they are trying to find their “voice”. While San Martin does not do only homages anymore, the designs remain quite “safe” generally. These show a stronger identity and even if these may not be perfect yet (although I don’t dislike the diver) they may release a true hit soon.

[@Beanerds]

I like these , a design refresh .

[@j1d7s]

It's good that they go a different route. I quite like the second one with the wavy dial, but it is just too huge for my wrist, I will take another look in case they come back with models at 40mm or below.

[@Opnmdjxkxmmff]

I like them, original design should always be commended. Just a tad big for me though

[@RabbitWatchShop]

I’ve praised San Martin, both in my personal review and in the comments. I find their endeavor exciting. While this watch isn’t for me, if they ever release a design that is to my taste, I’ll happily give their new brand a chance.

[@bani_niba]

While these current offerings aren't to my taste, it's great to have new design styles/design languages appear in the watch market. Most of the market is quite boring, with designs being in the market for so many decades. Hopefully with more Chinese brands heralding their own heritage, it will diminish the inherent racism of the marketing slogan "Swiss Made Quality", something the Japanese had to deal with for decades. As if companies in other parts of the world couldn't manufacture mid-level complexity consumer products like wrist watches.

[@RustyShackleford-mq5dq]

You should have pride in your own culture. I fully commend this brand for their honesty and quality. The design, albeit slightly unusual is a welcome change. That said, they need to get the case thickness down......12mm would be ideal. Also, not sure I'm sold on the price, for an NH movement, I've seen more attractive pricing.

[@magstheonlyone]

Keep trying Jianghun, you'll get to that good design language eventually

[@yama-fanboy]

it's a refreshing change of pace seeing a san martin watch that i will never want to own. it's amazing how wrong things went with these watches considering all of the ingredients for greatness were right there

[@e28forever30]

Greetings from Belgium.🇧🇪 Running the graveyard shift at the Pringles factory..🏭

[@SideWalkAstronomyNetherlands]

I have no money, if I had, I would probably buy the war drum, if the band fits... I like watches with a story, like a poem..

[@tablameister]

Thanks for the video. The designs are not my cup of tea but may appeal to others. They appear to be positioning this brand as a "high end" version of San Martin, but I didn't really see that in the designs.

[@GinkgoJoe]

Hahaha!! On the first one I thought "cool Ecozilla bezel!" Then I thought, "wait, IT'S NOT A BEZEL?!?!"

[@AlwaysPossible100]

They need to strike out to appear different. No doubts about that. I think this is a brave effort and good on them. Owning and embodying their cultural heritage. A recent fail is Welly Merk with its branding but the concept is phenomenal - Dunhuang caves, full marks WM for bringing up this fantastic cultural heritage, shame about the original branding name. And.. before.. anyone can say otherwise... I'm a 50 something Australian male that lives in Sydney that has not invested interested in any of these watches.

[@joeldfisher]

when I was a kid I always thought I'd like a watch that looks like the Stargate, but in practice probably not

[@HollyGrosvenor]

I bought the brown War Drum in April and I love it.The quality is superb and I really like the design it's good to have something different. It's really comfortable to wear and I don't find it to bulky to wear.I am not interested in the new model it's just another dive watch yawn.

[@Dialandhands]

Oh how I do hate a 12 hour fixed bezel😅 I wouldn’t buy this no matter what but I do appreciate the design. It’s not a complete clone-mage like some other San Martin watches.

[@m.c.v7804]

The War Drum watch looks like something The Flintstones would wear.

[@jetsuntaranatha8078]

I am waiting for more Chinese style and even with numbers in traditional Chinese characters.

[@paparock1482]

I like them both. Good luck to them.

[@masudashizue777]

Sometimes I wonder why so many companies are making watches when there is a finite number of watch enthusiasts. I bought 30 watches myself and although I have many more that I want, I've decided to put my watch collecting off to the side. . . at least for the rest of the year (LOL). I don't know what I'll do in 2025.

[@johnmonachelli5256]

Gonna be a tough 6 weeks

[@punkypink83]

love that they're a proudly chinese company, but i'd have also liked to see their brand Jianghun in chinese characters. because which jiang, which hun? i can guess hun would be the character for "soul" but im struggling with jiang, keep thinking about the "jiang" that means river.

[@JianghunWatch]

JIANG is actually the pinyin of the Chinese character LOGO above, which means craftsman when translated.

[@punkypink83]

@@JianghunWatch i get it's the pinyin. do you have the chinese character itself? like i know hun is 魂

[@JianghunWatch]

@@punkypink83 JIANG=匠

[@punkypink83]

@@JianghunWatch thank you!

[@khackett7]

If the DEEP CHALLENGER had a bezel insert that didn’t scream yacht master, it would be so much better.

[@ccooper8785]

I would be bankrupt if San Martin produced mecaquartz versions of their beautiful auto watches. (probably just as well that, thus far, they have not). I would be happy buying watches with Chinese brand names; I just don't see how having Chinese characters on a dial can be a problem.

[@lweleven3423]

If it tells the time . They nailed it 😂😂

[@birdytiger]

I really like the wardrum. Very steampunk. Couldnt daily it. But as i dont really daily at the best of times, its mostly a question of what else is out there as a statement piece

[@SuperHemiv8]

The 12 year old boy in me is giggling at the hour hand.

[@douglasladowski6342]

Odd and a little weird but still like the uniqueness. Trying to be themselves.

[@motouno3778]

Hey Jody ..... hhmmm different is not always good 😂😂 . For the Western market I think the brand makes it for limited sales straight of the mark & the design also drops it into the limited basket . It may have appeal for the Asian market but then alot of asian people want Western branded items ? Cheers

[@paulkukula6541]

Great review Jody. Out of the two, I prefer the War drum. I like the case & strap. Would buy one if only the hands & dial weren’t so awful. I also like the size of the crown. Hope they can fix it up.

[@amon_ndemo]

I like it, honestly

[@mvm006]

I love both designs. I only have the 02 and it is Amazing.

[@res00xua]

Dail is pretty good for what you have to work with. Try again with a better starting point. More enjoyable to watch than to do?

[@ccampbell1117]

I think the War Drum is beautiful as I did when it was released . Maybe round or oval ends to the hands to mimic drumsticks ( not kfc ) ? Not one you would wear everyday though , I do like big watches . Lucky they didn’t call the diver , Cyclops 2 . Thanks for that .

[@quixomega]

People have been asking San Martin to make some original watches. Those are certainly that, and while I don't think I want one I can see why someone might, it's an interesting design and the price is good for the quality. You could easily daily this without worry.

[@DavekayBSC]

I don't understand the positioning of Jianghun right now. Original designs are great, but SM already has those. These thus far are lower end designs than SN0144-GX is. No Miyota, no glidelock style clasp, they just the standard OTS part. I think if they were smart, they'd position Jianghun definitively *above* everything in the SM range. No NH35s or NH34s. Only 9015s, 9039s, and 9075s. Put them directly against brands like Baltic and Traska. I think they could make really incredible watches if they were selling them at $500-600.

[@koraypektas6952]

Their designs are great and the lume is perfect but I found the cases to be too big, I find smaller cases 40, 39 mm minimal cases more suitable.

[@davidrosenblum2178]

Hey, I kind of like the War Drum, and it's like nothing else I've seen. The only criticism I can offer is that if they're emphasizing their Chinese identity {and I think that's great} then they should have spec'd a Chinese movement and not the NH38. And despite doing the same Seiko thing with the Deep Challenger...and, yeah, that caseback is kinda lame... I REALLY like the look of either the 3- or 4-hander. The idea of adding something unabashedly Chinese to my collection has appeal after considering these. I'm sure it is the start of an upswelling of Chinese brands. Thanks, mate!

[@XtremeKremaTor]

Brown Ikepod seapod homage is very nice. Just swap the hands. Especially minute hand looks odd.

[@gauthamtvpm]

That is an awesome watch! The only other watch that comes close to this design is the Buyalov Design Radioroom

[@j.a.h.vandelaak3477]

I like the first one, as well as the logo and brand name. Not a strange name like Hruoland.

[@RandallSlick]

I do quite like the War Drum (?)...... in parts. Always a sucker for Ikepods as well. But those lugs and those hands! What a shame. Hope the V2 improves on strong foundations. The other one? Well, it exists, I suppose. Nice bracelet as you say. Hopefully available to buy separately on Ali or Watchdives soon.

[@F-Tier_Physique]

I applaud the idea, even thought its not really my style. Really wish San Martin would make a sister brand with a really good logo and name for their more original designs. Keep San Martin for the homages, then make good original watches under a different styled name and logo. New Sm logo and font isnt terrible, but I feel its so associated with homages that I cant really love it as much as an original microbrand.

[@benbean1000]

Nice video Jody. Please do a video on non aliexpress Chinese brand. There are a few out there.

[@turbyoulance]

I like the second one rather than the war drum but both are unappealing to me . The latest San Martin's like the Rainbow bezel, the Pinkie and the more recent myota movement Red and Blue ones are ones I would buy in preference to the Zangs

[@if5407]

I like it! Will take some styling though and for me stricktly summer time watch.

[@Fred-rg5vw]

1st watch. Case back is nice, shame the front is such an eye sore imo. 2nd watch not bad. Dial wise. Infact not bad at all.

[@Adrian_3006]

War drum case is excellent, love the bezel. Something different which is great! Not sure about the hour hand? Reminds me of Tudor snowflake which I'm not a fan of. Really like the Deep Challenger. Agree case back sub 😲😬😳. Dragon way better. Great review thanks Jody! 😅

[@JoeMenjivar]

I think the little submarine is pretty cute honestly

[@GXDoubleX]

I kind of like them, but I think they missed an opportunity to use something like the ST2130 or PT5000 movements to make these watches fully Chinese. Using the NH movements really doesn't differentiate them enough from San Martin or other AliExpress stuff in my opinion.